May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month.
When detected early, skin cancer is highly treatable.
You can protect your skin from the sun and reduce your skin cancer risk by:
- Seeking shade
- Wearing sun-protective clothing – including a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses with UV protection
- Applying a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher to all skin not covered by clothing
6 Surprising Places Skin Cancer Develops
Skin cancer develops in people of all ages, races, and nationalities. It can also develop on any area of the body, including these six unlikely places:
- Scalp
- Lips
- Hands
- Feet
- Groin
- Eyelids
If you see a spot that’s changing, itching, or bleeding on any area of your body, see a board-certified dermatologist. When found early, skin cancer is highly treatable.
To learn more about skin cancer prevention and detection, visit SpotSkinCancer.org
Do you know that some sunscreens can prevent sunburn, reduce your risk of getting skin cancer, and help prevent early signs of skin aging? Choosing the right sunscreen will do all three things.
When selecting a sunscreen, make sure the label says:
- Broad spectrum: This means the sunscreen can protect your skin from both types of harmful sun rays – UVA and UVB
- SPF 30 or higher: The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that you select a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher
- Water resistant: So the sunscreen will stay on wet or sweaty skin for a while before you need to reapply. Water resistance lasts either 40 or 80 minutes and not all sunscreens offer water resistance.
Check Your Partner. Check Yourself.
When detected early, skin cancer is highly treatable. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that everyone check their skin and their partner’s skin regularly for any new or suspicious spots. Read this infographic to learn how to perform a skin exam from head to toe and what signs to look for on the skin.
If you notice anything changing, itching or bleeding on your skin, make an appointment to see a board-certified dermatologist
